WILTSHIRE Police is sharpening its focus on the issues that matter most to residents – from safer streets to tackling violence against women and girls – in a move welcomed by the county’s police and crime commissioner.

Philip Wilkinson has backed the new priorities set out by chief constable Catherine Roper, saying they reflect what people across Wiltshire and Swindon are most concerned about.

From this month, Wiltshire Police will focus on three key areas: Safer Public Spaces, reducing and preventing violence against women and girls, and improving outcomes for victims.

Mr Wilkinson said: “Policing must always be shaped by the needs and concerns of the people it serves, and these priorities reflect what residents across our communities consistently tell me matters most to them.

“They align closely with my Police and Crime Plan and provide a clear focus for how Wiltshire Police will continue to protect the public and support victims.

“Keeping public spaces safe remains fundamental. Visible local policing, tackling antisocial behaviour, knife crime and youth offending, and strengthening neighbourhood teams are all essential to maintaining confidence and reassurance, particularly in our town centres, villages and rural areas.

“Crimes such as domestic abuse, stalking and sexual violence cause serious and lasting harm, often behind closed doors. Making this a core operational priority reinforces the importance of prevention, strong partnership working, effective support for victims and firm action against those responsible.

“Coming forward to report a crime can be daunting. People deserve to be treated with care, kept informed and supported throughout the process. High quality investigations and a positive victim experience are not optional extras – they are essential to building trust and confidence in policing.”

The refreshed focus comes at a time when policing is under increasing pressure, with rising demand and expectations around transparency and performance.

Mr Wilkinson added: “These priorities provide clarity and direction at a time when policing continues to face significant demand and ongoing reform. As policing adapts to new expectations around standards, transparency and performance, it is vital that operational focus is clear and consistent.

“Wiltshire’s strength as a smaller force is its ability to respond quickly, maintain strong local relationships and ensure leaders remain closely connected to frontline reality and community concerns.

“These priorities build on the real progress already made by reinforcing visible policing, strong accountability and a clear focus on victims.

“They give me confidence that Wiltshire Police is using its small size to its advantage – remaining agile, community focused and responsive – while continuing to improve the service it provides. This approach is essential to keeping Wiltshire a safe place to live, work and visit, both now and into the future.”